What do a skin-care product manufacturer in Tumwater, an established agriculture company in Eastern Washington and a cutting-edge Seattle biotech company have in common? Their work is improving the lives of residents here and abroad. That was the message of this year’s Grow Here ad campaign launched for the second year in a row during the red-carpet walk at the Oscars telecast in February.

This year’s Grow Here campaign featured:

M3 Biotechnology, a life science startup housed on the campus of the University of Washington. The company has seen promising results in clinical trials and is pushing ahead with research that could eventually stop Alzheimer's disease and even reverse its effects.

The McGregor Company, a 100-year-old agriculture company in Colfax that serves Northwest growers the seed, equipment, research and advice they need to raise healthy, sustainable crops. Alex McGregor, the company president, is driven by a commitment to small towns and farm families that permeates the business.

Alaffia, a mission-driven fair-trade skin care company based in Olympia that makes products with shea butter, coconut oil and other material sourced from the West African nation of Togo. Company co-founder Olowo-n'djo Tchala grew up in Togo and started the business with his wife, Rose, because he wanted to raise the standard of living for women in his home country.

The goal of the campaign is to share the positive story of employers across the state. And, to offer insights on how to improve the state’s business climate to ensure healthy, vibrant employers – and good-paying jobs – in every community.

The 2018 Grow Here ads are currently underway – stay tuned for more details.